Every school ought to have several exits leading to all the sides of each building. Should one exit be inaccessible there should be another alternative route out of the building. The standard evacuation drill for a building ought to be decided prior to an actual emergency situation. It is for this reason that evacuation drills are recommended for schools so that they can determine the time it takes to clear a building.

Evacuation is not only essential during a disaster, but also prior to it and after it. The clearing plan incorporates the following aspects:

-          Recognition of the problem location.

-          Control response of individuals.

-          Decision making.

-          Alarm.

-          Safety and movement of students.

Emergency situations requiring evacuation can vary from fire and natural disasters such as floods, tornadoes, volcanic eruption and hurricane to terrorist threats such as shooting and industrial accidents. Generally, evacuation plan is normally one however there have to be multiple strategies for managing different kinds of scenarios.

The school management has to make fast decisions pertaining to the safe pathways which the students ought to take and the authorities that are to be approached for assistance. Alarms are essential in every emergency situation since they function in alerting the entire community of students at the same time. In addition, alarms can be used to alert the local police and fire brigade of what is happening in the school.

Normally when an emergency alarm is sounded, the first thing that grips students is fright and panic. It is for this reason that every school ought to have in-charges that are well-trained on crowd control. It can be difficult to control students especially during emergency scenarios. If they hear the right words and instructions from figure heads they are more likely to follow the guidelines during the emergency evacuation.

The following are some of the benefits of having a disaster preparedness plan in a school:

First and foremost, the school management will be able to account for not only the students but also its support staff which includes teachers and subordinate staff.

Secondly, in case of an emergency, the school is less likely to lose its students during the evacuation. According to a recent study, most lives are usually lost during emergency not because of the threat but because of the poor evacuation procedure.

Thirdly, an evacuation plan will enable the school get the help of the local authorities to identify the underlying threat and eliminate it in the quickest way possible.

Last but not least, evacuation procedure will ensure that individuals requiring help are able to get it in the shortest time possible.

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As such, this article seeks to provide you with as much information as possible on cell phone etiquette. Note that, whilst this device can simplify your life, it can also be a source of agony.

Where not to use your cell phone

Business meeting

But, people today are forgetting the most fundamental of business etiquettes. For instance, while in a meeting, a businessman’s cell phone rings. Instead of switching it off and apologizing to the people in attendance, he proceeds to answer it and converse for the next 10 minutes in total disregard of what was going on. Such behavior can really dent your image especially if you are held in high esteem in the society. Therefore, if you are going in for any important meeting, it’s basic courtesy that you switch off your cell phone.

Classroom

The classroom is considered as a place where people go to acquire knowledge. It is a place where one should be very serious and maintain certain decorum.  It would be very rude if you were to make or receive a call when the class is going on.

Driving

As stated earlier, talking on the cell phone while driving has caused millions of road accidents around the world. As a way of curbing this behavior, most governments worldwide has enacted laws to bring to book any person caught talking on his or her cell phone while driving. Whereas cell phone manufacturers have added mobile phone accessories such as Bluetooth’s and Hands free which enable drivers talk on the cell phone while on the road, it has done little to reduce the accidents. The main reason why you should not talk on your cell phone while driving is because it takes your focus off the road.

Cell phone etiquette can be summarized as follows:

-          Never pick or make a call during a business meeting.

-          Keep a minimum of 10 foot between you and other people while talking on your cell phone.

-          Do not use your cell phones inside an elevator, a movie theater, a doctor’s waiting rooms and a hospital’s emergency room.

-          Do not use annoying ringtones. Unless you are a teenager wanting to impress his or her peers, you need to change your ringtone to something respectable.

-          Do not “multi-task” while making or receiving a call, especially if you are shopping, transacting a business or banking. 

There is no doubt that the mobile phone has revolutionized the world. This handheld device has altered the manner in which people around the world communicate. Now you can even surf the internet from your mobile phone and make use of other value added services. However, this development has not come without its share of problems. Today, quite a number of road accidents are caused as a result of drivers talking on the cell phone while driving. Students have been expelled from learning institutions after being found using cell phones in the exam hall to cheat. Crucial meetings are constantly interrupted by people who don’t bother to switch off their cell phone while heading into a meeting.

As such, this article seeks to provide you with as much information as possible on cell phone etiquette. Note that, whilst this device can simplify your life, it can also be a source of agony.

Where not to use your cell phone

Business meeting

But, people today are forgetting the most fundamental of business etiquettes. For instance, while in a meeting, a businessman’s cell phone rings. Instead of switching it off and apologizing to the people in attendance, he proceeds to answer it and converse for the next 10 minutes in total disregard of what was going on. Such behavior can really dent your image especially if you are held in high esteem in the society. Therefore, if you are going in for any important meeting, it’s basic courtesy that you switch off your cell phone.

Classroom

The classroom is considered as a place where people go to acquire knowledge. It is a place where one should be very serious and maintain certain decorum.  It would be very rude if you were to make or receive a call when the class is going on.

Driving

As stated earlier, talking on the cell phone while driving has caused millions of road accidents around the world. As a way of curbing this behavior, most governments worldwide has enacted laws to bring to book any person caught talking on his or her cell phone while driving. Whereas cell phone manufacturers have added mobile phone accessories such as Bluetooth’s and Hands free which enable drivers talk on the cell phone while on the road, it has done little to reduce the accidents. The main reason why you should not talk on your cell phone while driving is because it takes your focus off the road.

Cell phone etiquette can be summarized as follows:

-          Never pick or make a call during a business meeting.

-          Keep a minimum of 10 foot between you and other people while talking on your cell phone.

-          Do not use your cell phones inside an elevator, a movie theater, a doctor’s waiting rooms and a hospital’s emergency room.

-          Do not use annoying ringtones. Unless you are a teenager wanting to impress his or her peers, you need to change your ringtone to something respectable.

-          Do not “multi-task” while making or receiving a call, especially if you are shopping, transacting a business or banking.

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Discussed herein, are dangers of oil spills in the ocean.

Consequences of oil spills to seabirds and sea mammals

The most defenseless creatures when it comes to oil spills in the ocean are seabirds along with sea mammals. Unlike other sea creatures, seabirds and sea mammals are most likely to come across oil floating on the water surface. Oil often minimizes the amount of protection a seabird can get from its feathers. Consequently, most seabirds frequently perish from hypothermia whenever there is an oil spill. According to a recent study, it was shown that seabirds that get too much oil on their feathers lose their buoyancy. This in turn causes them problems when they attempt flying causing them to fall down. In addition, seabirds as well as sea mammals normally end up eating the oil on their feathers and bodies whenever they try to clean themselves. The end result is mass death of seabirds and sea mammals due to the damages to their internal organs caused by the ingestion of oil.

Costs of oil spills to plankton

In a layman’s term, plankton is a class of minuscule creatures (i.e. animals and plants) floating or swimming on the water surface. They are usually the first casualties as the oil spills gets to them first before it gets to any other sea creature. According to a study that was carried out by the ITOPF – International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited, it was revealed that oil spills in the ocean triggers injuries and deaths to plankton and phytoplanktons. This has significant effect given that these creatures are close to the bottom of the sea food chain. Plankton is a source of food for most fish, and other sea creatures feed on fish. Fish feeding on plankton may end up poisoning human beings. Consequently, when plankton is affected by oil spills in the ocean, other lives (i.e. marine and non-marine) are also affected.

Consequences of oil spills to fish

Apart from the above the sea surface creatures, those dwelling under the surface are also affected by oil spills in the ocean. Fish use gills to breath, and when the oil gets to their gills then their breathing is affected. Fish mostly depend on planktons for food. When these are poisoned by the oil spill, then they are also poisoned. Their population is also at risk when their eggs and larvae get contaminated by the oil spill.

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Tips and guidelines

Tip #1 – Save on energy to save money

Listed below are different ways through which you can be able to minimize energy consumption in the house or office and save money in the process:

-          Set the thermostat in the home and office a couple of degrees lower during the winter season and a couple of degrees higher during the summer so as to save money on heating and cooling expenses.

-          Fix compact fluorescent light bulbs in your house and office. You can do this instead of waiting for the conventional incandescent bulb to burn out.

-          If you have electronic appliances in the house that you are not using, remove them from the mains supply. Unknown to a majority of homeowners is that electronic gadgets even after being switched off still consume power so long as they are still connected to the mains.

-          Try as much as possible to avoid use cold water when using your washing machine. 85% of the power used by the washing machine goes to heating the water. Once you are done, make use of a clothes line so as to save on the energy used to dry the clothes in the machine.

Tip #2 – Save on water and save money

The following are different ways through which you can minimize the use of water in your house or office and be able to save money in the process:

-          Spend less time in the shower. Furthermore, when scrubbing your body, turn off the water. This will enable you to save on water consumption and expenses in the process.

-          Replace the showerhead in your bathroom with a low-flow showerhead. In comparison to how much you are going to save in the process, the amount of money spent on the low-flow showerhead is akin to a drop in the ocean.

-          Invest on a couple of faucet aerator. Whereas these gadgets may be costly they do help in conserving heat along with water whilst at the same time maintaining the water pressure high.

-          If you have a backyard, then you can plant a few of draught tolerant plants in it. These require less water compared to other species.

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Smoking ban

At airports we have to respect very strict rules or the consequences can be very tricky. Smoking ban applies to all international airports and is very strict. Completely contrary to many expectations, strictest prohibition can be found in Middle Eastern countries that are normally considered as well-known smokers. At most airports penalties are severe for those who violate the smoking ban. For example, at the airports in Turkey punishment for smoking is over 100 Euros. Smoking ban apply to all airport areas. If there are special rooms or boxes where smoking is allowed, then it is a great relief for smokers, but keep in mind that these rooms are small and often far away. Do not allow yourself to miss a flight because of a single cigar. You would surely pay a big amount of money for another flight ticket.

Prohibition of photographing and recording

Many airports apply a strict ban on photographing and filming inside the airport and maneuvering areas. These prohibitions exist for security reasons. Even though they have nothing to do with the logic, you have to respect them if they are prominent because the consequences can be very tricky, especially in Arab and communist countries. Be careful what you shoot in Tunisia, Egypt, and Cuba. If such kind of prohibitions exists, they must be highlighted. If you want to shoot, the safest way is to ask someone from the security guards if it is allowed. When shooting make sure you do not “catch” all security camera installation (scanners, security guards, surveillance cameras, etc.). A big number of European airports have specially organized spaces that are used for photography and observation aircraft.

Movement restrictions

Airports are specific because the area behind customs and passport control is considered cross-border zone. In this space nobody can enter if he is not a traveler and if he does not show a valid ticket. At airports you should be careful not to stray into unauthorized zone because this can cause additional problems with the police and you can easily miss your flight without the right to get your money back.

Communication limit

When you are in facilities that are particularly sensitive because of potential terrorist attacks, you must be careful how you express yourself. Airports can be very devastating if you like brutal jokes. The mention of weapons can also cause the suspicious views of other passengers and great inconvenience to you when you “reach” airport security. You should simply forget about the jokes that mention terrorism, weapons, explosions, Arabs, Al Qaeda, bombs and all words that might be suspicious. Airports are full of passengers from different countries who speak different languages and they will not understand your joke the same way. For example, if you tell a joke in English, in which you mention the word “bomb” that’s the only word that foreigner will perfectly understand and that’s a potential problem.

On some airports, for travel safety reasons, security guards can pay attention on a suspicious people and they have the right to allocate that people into the tunnels with increased security measures.

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Having recognized the terror and loses that most homeowners go through in the even of a disaster, the article aims at providing useful information on how you can protect yourself and family from natural disasters.

Steps and guidelines

First and foremost, ensure that you have the following safely tucked inside your house, i.e. lightening arrestor, safety cabinet fastener, torch light, smoke detectors, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, blankets, boots and plenty of water containers.

To protect your house and household from damages and injuries that may result in the event of an earthquake, follow the instructions provided below:

• Ensure that your house has been structurally secured. Get a qualified building inspector to ascertain whether your house has been safely fastened to the foundation. Houses that were constructed after 1935 have this feature but it is still of equal importance that you have it checked so that if there is need for it, it can be put.
• Ensure that all furniture and electrical equipments have been thoroughly secured. Make sure that all cabinets in the house have child proof fasteners installed. The latches are inexpensive and can easily be bought from local hardware stores or supermarkets.
• If you have bulk objects in the house, ensure that they have been stored inside floor level storage areas. In addition, make certain that wall hangings have been bolted properly to the wall to prevent chances of falling objects.
• For television sets, ensure that they have been secured properly on firm platforms.
• All beds should be moved away from where windows are. See to it that they have been placed next to interior walls.

To secure your house from fire outbreak follow the steps and guidelines provided below

• Ensure that fire extinguishers have been placed in properly accessible areas in locations that are prone to fire, especially the kitchen. Experts recommend that you make used of fire extinguishers that are easy to carry, i.e.  Between 1kg to 3kg.
• Ensure that smoke detectors have been installed in all the rooms of the house. Batteries used in smoke detectors ought not to be used for other purposes. In addition, ensure that they are replaced and tested once every six months.
• If your house has a fire place, make sure that a fire screen has been installed to make certain that the embers are contained to the inside.

To safeguard yourself and family members from thunderstorm and gushing winds

• Have all doors and windows about the house have been installed with weather stripping. Moreover, you can get a building contractor to place storm shutters.

The process of getting yourself, family members and house ready for an imminent calamity is not a task that can be undertaken by the feint hearted. Invest your effort and time into it.

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For four months after elections were held, Laurent Gbagbo ruled Ivory Coast with impunity. This was after losing his bid for a second term in office. While the entire country descended into civil war with each side supporting either Alassane Quattara or Laurent Gbagbo, Gbagbo was finally arrested at his private residence by armed forces loyal to the country’s duly elected president, Alassane Quattra assisted by French troops as well as United Nations peacekeepers, who had earlier in the day invaded Laurent Gbago residence in the capital city, Abidjan.

The United Nations secretary general, Ban Ki-Moon stated that Laurent Gbagbo arrest heralds the “end of a chapter that should never have been.” The United States secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, stated that, “it sends a strong signal to dictators and tyrants throughout the region and around the world.” Ivory Coast’s ambassador to the United Nations stated that, “the nightmare is over for the people of Ivory Coast.” Gbgabo, who has all this time been in concealing himself inside a bunker located under his residence for a week now, was interrogated before being whisked away to the Golf hotel, where Alasssane Quattara has been based since Laurent Gbgabo refused to hand over power. Since December, Alassane Quattara has been under the protection of the United Nations peacekeepers. United Nations Ivory Coast peacekeeping chief in Ivory Coast stated that, Laurent Gbgabo together with his wife who for a long time was influential was being held at one of the apartments within the hotel.

Since the contested elections, Abidjan has been a picture of ferocious fighting for the last one week after forces loyal to the country’s elect Alassane Quattara sweeped up from the North, where he has a stronghold. This was an action that was precipitated by the refusal of Laurent Gbagbos to hand over power even after several months of mediation, one of which included Kenya’s Prime Minister, Raila Odinga. The loyalist forces were assisted by the French troops and United Nations peacekeepers. This was done against the backdrop that Laurent Gbagbo still had approximately 1000 troops loyal to him.

Following Gbagbo arrest, Alassane Quattara appointed a new Prime Minister and called upon descanting forces to join him. Analysts are warning that Laurent Gbagbo arrest will still not bring an end to a conflict that has resulted in more than 1500 fatalities, particularly because of the role played by French troops. The former president had earlier said that the struggle was not against the people of Abidjan but, against foreign forces, French in particular.

The head of research at former United Nations Koffi Annan’s, International Peacekeeping Center in Accra, Ghana said that, “this is just the start of a crisis. The role of the French Licorne forces undermines Quattara credinility.”

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To keep the environment safe people should be taught the value of sustainable living. That means one should change the mode of transport whenever possible. Instead of using petrol / diesel driven vehicles one can go for eco driven vehicles which is run by solar power, battery or electricity.Use of organic foods should be preferred over imported packed foods. Organic foods are usually grown locally and are free from the harmful effects of the fertilizers. The Use of recycled paper products should be encouraged. One can produce his/her non- toxic house hold cleaners like vinegar or baking soda at home. While producing at home they cause less damage to earth, air, water, soil, animal life and plants than the other production methods. One should learn to new methods of reusing and recycling old glass jars, plastics, grocery bags, metals etc. They can be made into useful items by recycling. Even left over foods can be reused. Carbon –mono-oxide alarms like smoke detectors should be installed near all the sleeping areas particularly in each and every floor. To conserve energy switch off the lights when not in use. Light emitting diodes or LED lights should be used in the home, office or commercial places. They use less energy, generate less heat and last longer. Close the water taps properly after every use to save water. Home should be painted with non-toxic paint which is free from lead. Plantation of trees should be encouraged as much as possible.

Children are our future they should know how to save the earth. They should be taught the value of green life style at school itself. In the schools there should be periodical seminars on this topic and children should be encouraged to take part in various activities like organic gardening and preparing your own compost etc. The children are taught how to reduce the paper wastage also.

Some companies sale range of o products which are environment friendly. They produced a system which when used in automobiles reduce the fuel by ten percent and reduce the emission by 35%. This is used in engines of car, boat, plants etc. Environmental consulting firms are functioning all over the world .Their provide their clients assistance in adopting the Go Green technique in their field.

EPA (United States Environment Protection Agency) is an association which launched monthly newsletters on Go Green topic. They also conduct conferences on the green technology. To become a member one should register his/ her e-mail id with them. They provide information of various go green activities and events held worldwide to their members so that they can follow them in their locality or in the home.

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(Bank tellers are one of the most important and less significant paid, employees of the banking system. They are truly the first line of defense)

Bank fraud, even though usually not a violent crime can play havoc on a banks profit and loss. It is a criminal scheme to deceive, trick or swindle banks and their customers. Fraud takes on many forms such as stolen, forged or altered checks. Upon check presentation, many techniques are used to distract and confuse the teller. Be cautious when the presenter:

• Tries to divert attention from the transaction.
• Wants to skip the necessary policy and procedure.
• Appears overly sincere and honest.
• Gives a sob story.
• Threatens to make a report unless the teller does what he or she says.

Con artists usually mimic an average customer but use techniques they feel will throw the teller off guard. A person who acts in the ways described is not necessary a forger. However, the teller is usually protected by following the bank procedures and reporting suspicious transactions to the supervisor.

Proper identification is the number one tool, in the fight against fraud. It’s imperative that the teller ensure only authorized people receive bank funds. Giving money to the proper person requires identification of the person cashing the check. Once money is given for a forged or stolen check, it is usually impossible to recover the money.

There are three basic types of check presenters:

• Known customers, who the teller recognizes or knows personally.
• Established customers, who are not recognized by the teller but present checks drawn on their accounts, with proper identification.
• Noncustomers, who have no deposit relationship with the bank.

The identification required will usually vary with the type check, the amount of the check and the nature of the transaction. Each teller should be familiar with, and always follow their banks check cashing guidelines. When examining ID’s make the following comparisons:

• Compare the signature on the check and the ID.
• Check to be sure the name, address and telephone number matches the printed information on the check.
• Compare the description or photograph on the ID to the presenter.

These simple steps should help the teller avoid cashing unauthorized checks. However, the teller has a tough responsibility in determining that signatures and endorsements on a check are authorized and genuine.  Tips that may help the teller spot forgeries are:

• Forged signatures will show irregularities such as uneven or shaky handwriting.
• In improper signatures, periods following initials will normally remain in the same place.
• Writing slant is not likely to change.
• Dots over the “I’s” and “T” crossing will remain constant.
• Capital letters will remain the same.

And, if the teller is not sure, or senses the signature may be forged he or she can:

• Insist that the check be endorsed again on the opposite end.
• Examine the entire check for signs of forgery.
• Be careful of any new account customer who uses counter deposit slips.
• Refer the suspicious transaction to the supervisor.

There are a number of other fraud schemes commonly used against the banks such as split deposits, authorization fraud, check kiting, altered currency, counterfeit currency, traveler’s checks, and preferred checks.

(PLEASE CONTACT THE AUTHOR, FOR TIPS TO HELP PREVENT THE ABOVE LISTED FRAUDS, OR ANY OTHER SECURITY RELATED SUBJECTS)

Most people who approach the teller’s station are honest straightforward citizens, who are regular bank customers or are there for legitimate business, even if they bank somewhere else. It is these people, whose money the teller has been entrusted to safeguard. An alert, caring teller makes the difference between being taken in by a con artist and taking care of the customer’s best interest.

REMEMBER

It goes without saying, all customer accounts and transactions are confidential, as well as the bank security policies and procedures. Always follow your bank check cashing guidelines

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The escape phase has been the most difficult section of a mission. Since here ultimately the death of that person is fixed, the leaders plan more furious and complex plans than normal military activities. These suicide missions governed by the terrorists often enjoy several tactical advantages than any other warfare. These people think only one thing being their major goal that is to kill people. People as survivalists have to be concerned with these suicide bombers as they do not target people selectively. These inhuman can attack the schools where little children go for their studies or it can be even a hospital where people are already fighting with their lives. It can be one of our friends or a relative caught in the bomber’s mission. Suicide bombers are hazardous and one should be aware every time. Basically suicide bombers are of three categories. They may be type 1, type 2 or type3 suicide bombers.

In type 1 suicide bomber includes explosives within everyday things. Then these objects are shown as if they are true to the most extent. For this purpose, items like guitars, cases bottles or even lunch boxes can be utilized. The mass generally contained in the explosives is about 10 to 30 pounds. Materials like nail or glasses can be discovered in that device. The main motive of this type of bombers is to securely allow their device of destruction into the environment. In one of the investigations it was found that a guitar case was used for a bombing near a music academy. The person that had set that bomb might put a small switch attached to a wire from that object.

Devices of Type II are very popular these days generally can be heard about it in the news headings. They are body bombs carrying explosives up to 22 pounds and are hidden under that specific person’s clothes. They are dynamites or any improved version of those explosives. Usually these suicide bombers wear a belt across their waist that distinguishes them. They are very common as there are many death benefits attached to the bomber. Electrical blast caps seem to be a popular means in which the explosion can be initiated just with a battery of nine volt.

Now telling about the suicide bomber of type III, these suicide bombers choose vehicles as their mode of attacking. The car or the truck is loaded with explosives and it drove up to that site where attack has been planned. Okalahoma city suicide bomber was a typical example of type III suicide bombers. Thus, these suicide bombers are very destructive for themselves as well as for others.

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Bombs or IEDs i.e., improvised explosive devices come in many forms and shapes. Following are the methods to identify such an IED.

Bombs in abandoned containers and boxes: This is the most common form of explosive device. An explosive charge is hidden inside some closed container and left in public places. Then due to the negligence of a person, or through remote detonation techniques, the bomb is detonated. In many cases it has been observed that the people responsible for the blast move to a safe distance before the blast occurs. This gives us considerable amount of time and if detected early, human lives can be saved. People should always lookout for suspicious objects abandoned in public areas. In no one claims the property, the authorities should be quickly made aware of the package. The IEDs are normally kept in objects with a hard casing like a briefcase, or a metal can etc. immediately the nearby people should be made aware so that no one goes near the suspicious object.

Letter or parcel bomb: These are another categories of threats commonly targeted to a particular person or group of persons. These are to be handled very carefully as this is very effective for the people behind the conspiracy. Any suspicious packet, mostly without any originating or return address is the ones to be taken care of. These also have unusually restrictive markings like “not to be delayed” or “to be opened only by….”.  Chances are that these packages are small yet heavy due to the hard casing of the IED. The labels on the parcel or the odors may be surprising and in case of any suspicion, the local authorities should be immediately contacted. Some other features, that can ease the identification of such IEDs are protruding metal wires or foil casings, oily or greasy stains on the parcel, unbalanced load inside the parcel etc.

Car bombs: this is also a common mode of planting bombs in heavily concentrated areas like market places, clubs or office buildings. In case of car bombs, they are mostly hidden in the back of the car. So in case of any suspicious abandoned vehicle, the make and condition of the car should be noticed first. If it looks that the back of the car is stuffed with some heavy objects the authorities should be notified immediately. The cars used for blasts are normally packed with large amount of explosives or artillery shells. So if any characteristic smell occurs or any portion of the exposed part of the cars back looks like explosives, then there are chances that it is a car bomb.

If timely proper action is taken, both identification and neutralization of the bombs would have higher chances of success.

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You might have heard of Japanese kamikaze pilots who risked their lives in the service of their country. They literally threw themselves at the enemy thus killing them as well along with whatever equipment they had. It is a very effective tactic that during World War II every soldier feared the Japanese kamikaze. To them, they have not died in vain but instead they have fulfilled their destiny and died in honor for their country.

There is some sort of a profile that fit most suicide bombers. They could be of different country or ideals but all of them express classic suicidal traits which include depression, guilt, hopelessness for their lives, and rage to do damage. There are various reasons for committing suicide however. Some are attributed to religion and some have political inclinations.

There have been various suicide bombing incidents and the most well accounted for was the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. That day will forever be etched in every ones heart as the day terrorism won. Every American was concerned of homeland security and personal security as well. Many wept for the lives lost, family, friends, rescue workers and even complete strangers that were not so lucky to escape their deaths. Everyone was awestruck when the plane aimed straight for one of the towers and when the towers collapsed, everyone gasped. Anybody can remember to this day where he was and what he was doing when the Twin Towers collapsed. It was a day of mourning for everyone in the US.

Every city in the world has its share of suicide bomber stories. From Moscow, Russia in early 2010 to a suicide bomber in Stockholm, Sweden last December 2010 which killed 2 people, everyone had the taste of what a suicide bomber can do. But what can we do to protect ourselves?

Everyone must be vigilant in everything they do and in everywhere he goes. Don’t underestimate anyone. If you are confronted by any security personnel for bag inspection while you board your flight, let him do his job. He is there to provide safety and security for everyone. Comply with security rules; let everyone know the importance of safety at home, in school and in the office. If you notice any suspicious behavior or item report it to your local police or call 911 immediately. Bombs may be placed in bags that are unknowingly left behind at the park are anywhere near plenty of people. Only vigilance from each one of us can save us from suicide bombing.

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“Gee, I was really on the fence about this issue,” says the hypothetical persuaded passer-by. “But now that I’ve seen all of these people I’ve never met on my local street, holding signs, wearing T-shirts emblazoned with bald partisan assertions, and generally shouting loudly various angry refrains about the alleged motives of our elected leaders, I am definitely convinced that the legislature should attempt to pursue alternative action, per the requests of these fine protesters.”

PUBLIC PROTESTS, DEMONSTRATIONS AND PICKETING

In this political correct world we live in, public protests seem to be on the rise. So far, the majority of these demonstrations seem to have been limited to the public sector rather than the private corporations. However, the trend could shift at any time. And, what would happen if your bank suddenly was exposed to these type protests? And, are you prepared to protect your employees and assets?

This document is meant to establish certain security guidelines to be considered in the event of public protests, demonstrations or picketing. And, these guidelines are developed to ensure the safety of the bank employees and customers, as well as the bank’s assets. Two main action plans should be considered: (1) Demonstrations limited to a public access such as a sidewalk or street. The local law enforcement authority’s jurisdiction would control this activity but the bank Security Department should stand ready to sign a complaint if needed. (2) Demonstrations expanding to the banks private property such as the banking lobby or parking deck. The bank should take a sensitive but firm approach to this activity.  

Since public protest and demonstrations are unpredictable and may develop quickly with little or no warnings, two general scenarios should be addressed here:

1. Public contact locations displaying orderly conduct, such as the branch banks or customer service areas.

As long as the demonstration is orderly and business can be conducted safely, the bank should remain open with the following stipulations

(Please contact the author for these listings)

2. Public contact locations displaying disorderly conducts. Such as the bank branches or customer service areas.

If the demonstration becomes disorderly and it becomes difficult or unsafe for employees or customers, the following action   should be taken in the order given:

(Please contact the author for these listings)

3. Administrative Headquarters and Data Processing facilities.

If these, and other such facilities, are a non-public contact processing center in a secure environment, demonstrators should not be permitted in or around the property. The same exit warning procedure listed for the bank branches should be followed. Employees should be instructed to remain inside the building until all demonstrators have left. 

CIVIL DISTURBANCES AND PUBLIC PROTEST

A Civil Disturbance is any gathering which is or has the potential to get out of control. There may be as few as one individual involved. A disturbance can take many different forms. As a result no precise instructions can be given.

1. The following instructions may apply:

(Please contact the author for these listings)

2. Avoid confrontation, physical or verbal, with any members of the gathering.

3. Observe the ‘ring leaders” characteristics, for identifying purpose, and complete a Robbery Description Form when appropriate. (This form sample may be obtained from the author).

4. If any members of the gathering enter the banking office, activate the still film cameras with the “suspicion” button. Locations with continuous run CCTV cameras will automatically capture the documentation.  

5. If violent action is taken or attempted by any member of the gathering, activate all alarm systems and call police.

6. Make no statement to the news media.

7. Follow the precise instructions of the police authorities.

In conclusion, each Security Manual should have a precise, up to date, policy designed to protect the banks customers, employees and assets, in case of such an emergency, as addressed in this document. This policy should be approved by the bank’s Board of Directors, and the approval document as part of the Security Manual.

© ROBEY for Security World News, 2011. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
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Are we destined to live in a world of crime? I hope not! Why is there so much crime and why do people turn to a life of crime in the first place? The root of 80% of crime, statistics say, is poverty. Criminals mostly come from people who belong to the lower income bracket. A life of crime seems to be the last resort because they could not get a decent job or a steady monthly paycheck. Poverty is what keeps some people attached to crime that they can no longer reform from doing illegal and immoral things like prostitution and drugs.

Prostitution has been there since time immemorial and it is very hard for people who have gone through this life to reform. Drugs and all the actions and merits that go along with using this illegal substance have also been in the roots of human history. Drug addiction is also the root of many types of criminal acts like stealing, murder and rape.

And then there is the green eyed monster greed. People who have enough money to go by every day, or even people who are quite well of succumb to a life of crime because they are blinded by greed. We have our own stories of politicians who have plundered the nation’s wealth for their own convenience. When we work our heads off trying to earn a measly buck, they just sit around watching their pay checks grow because of ill gotten wealth. These types of criminals think that they can get away with it every time but they are wrong.

So what do we do in a society filled with crime? The answer is to be vigilant in everything we do. Let us start in our home and in our schools where our kids are. They could be the starting point of change. And change is never too late for anyone.

Criminal acts may happen in different places, at school, at the mall or even at your own home. Criminals may come in different shapes and sizes; they may be young or old, male or female, black or white. But one thing is definitely true. Crime does not pay. Any crime committed will not go unpunished. They can go and get away with crime once but greed makes them come back for more and justice is always waiting for them in the end. Justice and punishment will be served.

© Kimmy for Security World News, 2011. | Permalink | One comment | Add to del.icio.us
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A computer virus that may leave Windows users vulnerable to digital hijacking is spreading through companies across the world.

It is hard to imagine a world without computer technology today and it is even more difficult to comprehend how things were done in the past without any computers. Long gone are the days that computers were only use for commercial and industrial use. Today computers play a much larger role in education and leisure activities than ever before.

Although the use of a computer seems innocent, regretfully there is always the risk of your computer being hacked. Computer hijacking occurs mostly when a computer is connected to a network like the internet, with no anti virus software installed.

Computer hijacking can be prevented if you take precautionary steps and if you use good common sense while using your pc. Investing in good anti virus software is very important and avert from making use of P2P file sharing software is a good start. Another basic, yet often overlooked step is not to open emails of which you do not know the origin. Most email servers have spam or junk folders as a precautionary measure, but some hackers manage to sidestep them too. Another obstacle for hackers is making use of complicated passwords. Too often people make use of the most obvious passwords such as names or names spelled backwards that it is a breeze for a hacker to gain access to your information.

The purpose of anti virus software is to prevent hackers to upload destructive or intrusive files onto your computer while internet connections are secured by making use of the firewall on your pc.

Computer hackers commonly use P2P file sharing software to gain access to your computer by sharing common files such as movies or music files. Manny times the hackers add a keystroke logger to the file that you unsuspecting download. Once the keystroke logger is activated through the download and installation via the music or movie file, every keystroke you make on your pc is transmitted to the computer of the hacker. The most common result of this type of hacking is identity theft.

Concerning emails, most hackers use email to hack a pc by sending emails, usually with attachments. The attachment contains a specific code to run a hacking command. Once you open the attachment, the command starts running and this way the hacker gains access to what ever information is available on your pc. Never open suspicious email or email that you are not familiar with. The safest way is to simply just delete it without opening it.

Most of us use our computers to store personal information such as our banking and financial information. Online memberships and especially financial accounts entail making use of passwords. As mentioned before, making use of easy identifiable information for a password make it easy for hackers to gain access. A good mix of letters and numbers in combination makes it hard for hackers to decipher

Computer hackers often pursue wireless networks and especially new wireless networks because they are easy targets. When the network is initially installed, there is not any level of security present. The best way to secure a wireless network is to log onto the router and set the security settings to require a password before access is gained to the network.

Because of the ever changing and advancement of technology, computer hackers make sure they remain up to date as well. Therefore, they create and use new viruses constantly. Consequently, it is very important to make sure that all security software is updated on at least a weekly basis. The majority of security software has an automatic daily update to ensure maximum protection. Some security software does not have that function and requires that you do updates on a manual basis.

© Miljo for Security World News, 2010. | Permalink | One comment | Add to del.icio.us
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